County Sligo self catering accommodation, Ireland
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
When developing the old Barytes Mill Site at the base of the Gleniff Horseshoe Drive in Ballintrillick, great care was taken to preserve the site so that present and future generations would be aware of and learn about the industrial archaeology along with the flora and fauna of the area.
Wildlife, flora and fauna
The variety of habitats to be found throughout the woodland supports a diverse array of animal species. As well as the varied woodland, there are open areas of grassland and heath. The river and marshy areas are home to fish, amphibians and water invertebrates. The cascading river adds to the diversity of bird species to be found. Buzzards, peregrines and ravens are sometimes spotted soaring overhead in the area. Golden eagles, re-introduced to Ireland at Glenveagh National Park in Donegal, have been observed in the adjoining mountains.
Information panels are provided at the Mill Site and in the Centre about the local flora and fauna.
Waste
We operate a reduce, re-use and recycle policy at the Centre. We provide recycling and compost facilities for staff and guests.
Ballintrillick Environmental Group has provided Sligo County Council with a piece of land for a recycling bank for cans and bottles beside the Centre.
Water
There are signs at all taps in the Centre for careful use of water.
Our toilets have a dual flush system.
The Benwiskin Centre Community Project uses rainwater for the garden.
Energy
Our electricity is supplied by Airtricity.
We have installed solar panels and a pellet boiler.
All our bulbs are energy saving bulbs.
There are signs at all switches for lights to be turned off when not in use.
Guests are supplied with our Environmental Policy in a folder in their bedrooms to encourage their participation with our efforts.
Buildings
The Centre is an old VEC building which Ballintrillick Environmental Group restored for use as a community centre and tourist hostel.
When Ballintrillick discovered the ruins of the old Barytes Mill site when developing that piece of land for an amenity area, they took care to preserve it and have since published a booklet about the Mill site and held information events. This booklet is available on our website.
Transport
Ballintrillick is in a rural location and the nearest daily public transport for guests is in Cliffoney. Because we are rural, most guests tend to come by car, for those that have no transport, they can avail of The Benwiskin Centre bicycle hire service during their stay. Ballintrillick is special because of its scenery, location and great walking and cycling routes. Ballintrillick Environmental Group has also published a booklet on local walking and cycling routes which is also available on our website.
Suppliers
Our brochures are printed on recycled papers and we purchased ecover cleaning products and recycled toilet paper.
Community
The Benwiskin Centre provides packages for guests using local businesses from surfing, horse riding lessons etc. On request, we can provide an itinerary for foreign students who will require services from English lessons, arts and crafts, day trips, catering and transport and we use local businesses for this. We run classes here at The Centre and offer employment locally to tutors to facilitate classes in yoga, art, basket makers, gardening, computer classes etc.
Volunteering and charity
Since the Centre opened, volunteers have run card games from October to March and a Social and donations are made on a yearly basis to St. Vincent de Paul from these. Also annually, the Centre holds a Tea Day for the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland. Local community members hold a variety of fund raising events. In lieu of Christmas cards, a donation is made to a local charity.
Local employment
6 people are currently employed in The Benwiskin Centre. 4 of who came from the Live Register. Full-time staff include 1 Manager, 1 Housekeeper and 1 Caretaker. Part-time staff include 1 Office Assistant and 2 Housekeepers. All staff have availed of training opportunities. The Manager is currently involved with Ballintrillick Environmental Group in a Community Leadership Programme. The Manager is also undertaking a Certificate in Management Practice Course through the University of Ulster.
Local Crafts and Culture
As mentioned previously, we give ad hoc employment to local tutors. Ballintrillick Environmental Group recently held a Harvest Fair at The Centre. The concept behind the fair was aimed at bringing together a wide range of local skills and interests and provide a focus for community celebration, exchange and socialising. This project was about supporting and celebrating Ballintrillick and the surrounding areas. Approximately 25 exhibitors offered high quality arts, crafts and homemade products.
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